Podcast Summary: "Den of Spies with Craig Unger" Episode: Den of Spies with Craig Unger
Host: Sharon McMahon
Release Date: December 23, 2024

Introduction to the Episode

In this compelling episode of "Here's Where It Gets Interesting," host Sharon McMahon delves deep into the covert operations that shaped the 1980 U.S. presidential election. Her guest, renowned investigative journalist Craig Unger, discusses his groundbreaking book, "Den of Spies: Reagan, Carter, and the Secret History of the Treason that Stole the White House." The conversation unpacks the intricate web of espionage, political sabotage, and the profound implications these events had on American history.

Overview of "Den of Spies"

Craig Unger introduces his book as a "spy thriller," rooted in real-life events that transpired during the tumultuous 1980 presidential election. He emphasizes the controversial nature of the narrative, revealing a "secret, treasonous, covert operation" aimed at undermining President Jimmy Carter's efforts to secure the release of American hostages from the Iranian embassy. This operation, as Unger posits, played a pivotal role in Carter's electoral defeat and paved the way for the rise of modern conservatism with Ronald Reagan's presidency.

Craig Unger (04:36): "This is a secret, treasonous, covert operation that sabotaged an American presidential election. And it was the foundation of the birth of modern conservatism."

Historical Context: The 1980 Election and the Hostage Crisis

Sharon McMahon sets the stage by highlighting the Iranian hostage crisis, where 52 American hostages were held in the Iranian embassy. She explains how Carter's relentless focus on securing their release left him unable to effectively campaign, positioning the crisis as a central issue that voters prioritized.

Sharon McMahon (05:25): "The Iranian hostage crisis ... Carter doesn't feel good about going out and hitting the campaign trail ... focus on getting these people out."

Bill Casey’s Role and Covert Operations

At the heart of Unger's narrative is Bill Casey, Ronald Reagan's campaign manager, whom Unger describes as "one of the greatest master spies in American history." Despite his eccentric demeanor—often mumbling and exhibiting poor table manners—Casey orchestrated a clandestine network that trafficked weapons to Iran, a hostile nation embroiled in conflict with the U.S. This strategic move was aimed at ensuring the hostages remained captive until after the election, thereby crippling Carter's chances of re-election.

Craig Unger (06:49): "... he's allying with the hardline theocracy, not the moderate secular democrats in Iran, but he's allying with them. He's giving them weapons... he wants Iran not to release the hostages."

Investigative Journey: Uncovering the Truth

Unger recounts his three-decade-long pursuit to unveil the truth behind the October Surprise conspiracy. Initially sparked by an op-ed from Gary Sick in the New York Times, Unger faced significant obstacles, including dismissal and skepticism from major publications like Newsweek. Undeterred, he continued his research internationally, gathering evidence from diverse sources, including Israeli military intelligence and Iranian officials.

Craig Unger (10:25): "I finally got into Iran. I went to Israel, I went to Paris to find research to support all these allegations."

Personal Costs and Challenges

Pursuing such a controversial story came at a personal cost for Unger. He faced legal battles, enduring a lawsuit that lasted five years, which, despite his eventual victory, cast doubts on his reputation. Nonetheless, his relentless dedication saw him reestablish his career with Vanity Fair and continue his investigative endeavors.

Craig Unger (19:52): "I was sued. I won the lawsuit. But even that means you're tied up in court for... and it puts a question mark over your reputation."

Implications on American Politics and History

The revelations in "Den of Spies" underscore the profound impact of foreign interference in domestic politics. Unger argues that the covert operations led by Casey not only influenced the 1980 election but also set the stage for subsequent Republican administrations, including George H.W. Bush and his son, George W. Bush. This manipulation extended to shaping the judiciary, contributing to the current Republican majority in the Supreme Court.

Craig Unger (35:25): "... that's part of the reason we have this Republican majority in the Supreme Court today. I mean, it has really changed the nation."

Reagan’s Involvement and Awareness

A critical aspect of the discussion revolves around Ronald Reagan's knowledge and involvement in the covert operations. While direct evidence linking Reagan to the orchestration of the hostage release remains elusive, Unger presents compelling circumstantial evidence, including communications between Reagan aides and foreign officials aimed at delaying the hostages' release until after the election.

Craig Unger (25:13): "There was a letter to Nancy Reagan from the former governor of Texas, John Conlight... telling all of them, look, Iran shouldn't release the hostages."

The Enduring Importance of Historical Truth

Unger emphasizes the necessity of acknowledging and understanding these dark chapters of American history. Drawing parallels between personal historical revelations, such as the true story of the Alamo, he underscores how confronting uncomfortable truths is essential for national growth and preventing the repetition of past mistakes.

Craig Unger (37:19): "... those who don't remember the past are doomed to repeat it."

Sharon McMahon echoes this sentiment, advocating for a transparent reckoning with history to foster a more informed and conscientious citizenry.

Closing Thoughts and Takeaways

As the episode concludes, Unger reflects on the broader implications of his findings, urging listeners to recognize the fragility of democratic processes and the ease with which they can be subverted. He calls for vigilance and a collective commitment to historical honesty to safeguard the nation's integrity.

Craig Unger (35:39): "We have to come terms with our history... we're going to be in real trouble."

Sharon McMahon thanks Unger for his courageous work in bringing these truths to light, acknowledging the discomfort that accompanies such revelations but affirming their importance for societal progression.

Key Quotes

• Craig Unger (04:36): "This is a secret, treasonous, covert operation that sabotaged an American presidential election."
• Sharon McMahon (05:25): "Carter doesn't feel good about going out and hitting the campaign trail ... focus on getting these people out."
• Craig Unger (10:25): "I finally got into Iran. I went to Israel, I went to Paris to find research to support all these allegations."
• Craig Unger (19:52): "I was sued. I won the lawsuit. But even that means you're tied up in court for... and it puts a question mark over your reputation."
• Craig Unger (35:25): "... that's part of the reason we have this Republican majority in the Supreme Court today. I mean, it has really changed the nation."
• Craig Unger (37:19): "... those who don't remember the past are doomed to repeat it."
• Craig Unger (35:39): "We have to come terms with our history... we're going to be in real trouble."

Conclusion

This episode of "Here's Where It Gets Interesting" skillfully unravels a complex and often overlooked aspect of American political history. Through Craig Unger's meticulous research and candid discussion, listeners gain a profound understanding of the clandestine operations that influenced a pivotal election and reshaped the nation's ideological landscape. The conversation serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of historical accuracy and the continuous need to scrutinize the forces that shape our democracy.